ASTON, Penn. —Credit unions in two states have named new leadership.
In Pennsylvania, the $908-million Sun East Federal Credit Union has selected Jeff Gehris to lead the organization, succeeding Debbie Cook who will remain with the credit union in an advisory role as president until her retirement on Dec. 31.
According to DDJ Myers, which handled the search, Gehris brings 30 years of credit union experience to his new role.
“He began his career as a teller and progressed through a range of operational and executive leadership roles, giving him a firsthand understanding of both the member experience and the important role credit unions play in the communities they serve,” the organization said.
Most recently, Gehris served as EVP/chief strategy and experience officer for Securityplus Federal Credit Union in Baltimore.
‘Honored to be Selected’
“I am honored to have been selected to serve as chief executive officer of Sun East Federal Credit Union,” Gehris said in a statement. “I look forward to building on Sun East’s strong foundation and bringing my passion for people, innovation, and growth to this role. My commitment is to empower our employees, deliver exceptional experiences for our members, strengthen the communities we serve, and position Sun East for continued success. I am grateful for the Board’s confidence and excited to work alongside the talented Sun East team as we shape the credit union’s next chapter.”
‘Stood Out’
“Throughout our search process, Jeff stood out not only for his experience and vision, but also for his genuine passion for people and his appreciation for the values and culture that make Sun East such a special organization,” Chairman Joel Romaine said in a statement. “The board would also like to thank Debbie Cook for her outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to Sun East, its members, and its employees. Throughout her tenure, Debbie has remained focused on improving the lives of our members while fostering a strong, people-centered culture for employees. Her contributions have helped position the credit union for continued success, and we are deeply grateful for her service.”
Lifelong-Learner
Sun East said Gehris is a lifelong learner, having earned both his Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management from Saint Leo University. In addition, he earned the Certified Chief Executive (CCE) designation from CUES and is actively engaged in the credit union movement through America’s Credit Unions and in community service through the United Way of Central Maryland.
Outside of his professional activities, Gehris enjoys spending time with his husband, son and daughter-in-law, and his three grandsons. Gehris is an avid runner who loves cooking and gardening, along with visiting Ocean City, N.J., his annual vacation spot for more than 25 years.
‘Exceptional Experience’
Gehris was placed by DDJ Myers, the well-known executive search and leadership development firm. “Working with the DDJ Myers team throughout this process has been an exceptional experience. From the beginning, they took the time to understand not only my leadership experience and capabilities, but also who I am as a leader and the type of organization where I could make the greatest impact,” Gehris said. “The process was thoughtful, transparent, and engaging at every stage. I am incredibly grateful for their partnership, guidance, and commitment to creating the right alignment between Sun East and me. This was more than a recruiting process. It was about finding the right fit for both the credit union and its next CEO, and I could not be more excited about where that journey has led.”
USF CU Names New CEO
Separately, in Florida, USF Credit Union has named Richard Sellwood president and CEO, succeeding Rick Skaggs.
Sellwood previously served as senior vice president and chief operating officer.
“Richard understands our culture, our values, and the importance of putting our members first,” Board Chair Rick Will said in a statement.
Will thanked Skaggs for his service and contributions, saying the board appreciated his dedication to the credit union, its members and the communities it serves.
Sellwood said his priorities include building on the credit union’s foundation, strengthening relationships with the University of South Florida and community partners, and improving the member experience.
